South Asian Canadian Muslims in British Columbia
The project gathers these stories through interviews, research and historical records. Viewing Islam as a mosaic, it focuses on the traditions and lived experiences of BC’s South Asian Canadian Muslim community. The South Asian Canadian Muslim community is made up of new immigrants and early settlers from the start of the 20th century. Recognizing that this project will be a first step in preserving these histories, we aim to provide a foundation for future researchers, artists and community members to continue documenting the stories of South Asian Muslims in BC.
We welcome any feedback that can help us enhance this project by writing to us at sasi@ufv.ca or contacting us at 604-854-4547.
Historical Photographs
Explore historical photographs documenting the journies, traditions, and community life of South Asian Canadian Muslims in British Columbia. Click on any image to view it in full size.
About the Project
The South Asian Canadian Muslims in British Columbia (SACMBC) project is
an online exhibit developed and thoughtfully curated by the South Asian
Studies Institute at the University of the Fraser Valley between 2024
and 2025. The online exhibit is housed within the South Asian Canadian Digital Archive (SACDA). The project seeks to create a foundational understanding of the South
Asian Canadian Muslim communities in BC. This is a starting point to
build a more robust engagement with the diverse communities and their
experiences across Canada. What you will find here is the history of
migration and settlement, oral history narratives of contemporary South
Asian Canadian Muslims in BC, a recent timeline of significant events
and many reading resources for you to explore.
We thankfully acknowledge the financial support of our funders and the support of our partners.
Thumbnail photo credits:
Community members at Bear Creek Community
Hall on the last day of Ramadan (1995). [Photograph : b&w]. Surrey Leader
Photograph Fonds (F62-0-5-0-0-10-0-248). Surrey Archives, City of Surrey,
Surrey, Canada.
Explore Our Content
Historical Journey
Explore the migration and settlement of South Asian Canadian Muslims in British Columbia across different time periods:
- Early 20th Century
- Mid-20th Century
- Recent experiences of South Asian Canadian Muslim in BC
- Timeline
- Case Studies: Hidden Histories
Community Life
Explore the lived experiences of South Asian Canadian Muslims in BC through personal narratives and contemporary profiles:
Oral Histories
Personal narratives and interviews from community members
Explore all oral histories →Contemporary Personalities
Influential leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers today
View all personalities →Research Resources
Access academic research, articles, books and other resources about South Asian Canadian Muslims.
Browse resources →Participate
Contribute to this living archive by sharing your personal experience or family history.
How to contribute →